Dive into the rich tapestry of Edmund Rubbra's choral mastery with this captivating collection of his lesser-known works. Released in 2000, this album showcases the profound depth and versatility of Rubbra's compositional genius, offering a unique blend of sacred and secular themes that resonate with both the heart and the mind.
The album opens with the stirring "Song of the Soul," a piece that embodies the intimate communion with divine love, followed by the enchanting "Mediaeval Latin Lyrics," which transport the listener to a bygone era with their lyrical beauty and historical resonance. The "Inscape" series, inspired by the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, is a highlight of the collection, featuring intricate vocal arrangements that bring the poet's vivid imagery to life.
Rubbra's Advent Cantata, "Natum Maria Virgine," concludes the album with a series of moving recitatives, arias, and hymns that capture the essence of the Advent season. Throughout the album, the performances by Stephen Varcoe, the City of London Sinfonia, and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus, under the direction of Richard Hickox, are nothing short of breathtaking, bringing out the full richness and nuance of Rubbra's compositions.
This album is a testament to Rubbra's enduring legacy as one of Britain's most prolific and innovative composers. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Rubbra's music, this collection offers a compelling introduction to the composer's choral works, showcasing his unique ability to blend traditional forms with modern sensibilities. With a duration of just over 56 minutes, it's an album that demands repeated listening, revealing new layers of beauty and complexity with each play.
2000 Chandos Records2000 Chandos Records
Tracks
Song of the Soul (in intimate communication and union with the love of God), Op. 78Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe
4 Mediaeval Latin Lyrics, Op. 32: I. Rondel. Allegro vivace e sempre leggieroEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe
4 Mediaeval Latin Lyrics, Op. 32: II. Plaint. LentoEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe
4 Mediaeval Latin Lyrics, Op. 32: III. Pastoral. GiocosoEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe
4 Mediaeval Latin Lyrics, Op. 32: V. Lament. LentoEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe
Inscape, Op. 122: I. Pied BeautyEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Inscape, Op. 122: II. The Lantern out of DoorsEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Inscape, Op. 122: III. SpringEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Inscape, Op. 122: IV. God's GrandeurEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Inscape, Op. 122: V. EpilogueEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Veni, creator Spiritus, Op. 130Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Advent Cantata. Natum Maria Virgine, Op. 136: I. RecitativeEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Advent Cantata. Natum Maria Virgine, Op. 136: II. AriaEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Advent Cantata. Natum Maria Virgine, Op. 136: III. Acrostic HymnEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Advent Cantata. Natum Maria Virgine, Op. 136: IV. ChoraleEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chorus
Charles Edmund Rubbra, born in Northampton in 1901, was a distinguished British composer whose works spanned a wide range of genres, though he is perhaps best known for his eleven symphonies. Rubbra's music, which reached its zenith of popularity in the mid-20th century, is characterised by its dramatic intensity and improvisatory spirit. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Rubbra never embraced the dodecaphonic style, instead forging his own unique compositional path. His extensive catalogue includes notable works such as the Viola Concerto in A Major, Op. 75, and his Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 85. Despite a decline in public recognition in recent decades, Rubbra's compositions continue to captivate those who seek out his music, offering a rich and emotive experience that stands the test of time.
Vinylscout
Edmund Rubbra
